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3. 2026 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference

Strategies for Growing Attendance at Extension Events

Susanne Hinrichs

Summary

Growing an in-person event requires intentional outreach, strategic partnerships, and thoughtful use of existing networks. This presentation will share how our team expanded the Extension Women in Agriculture Conference from 70 to 225 participants by implementing a coordinated, relationship-driven promotional strategy. We will outline the communication approaches that proved most effective, including targeted email outreach, leveraging advisory committee networks, and collaborating with partners who amplified our message through their own channels. Press releases, media interviews, and community-based engagement also contributed to creating early visibility and sustained buzz leading up to the event.

Because conferences of this scale require significant time, energy, and financial investment, ensuring strong registration is essential for long-term program viability. Equally important is creating an engaging in-person experience that participants value. Our team made deliberate choices to design sessions that took full advantage of being together physically. Instead of traditional lecture-style or webinar-like formats, our workshops emphasized interaction, conversation, and hands-on learning. Facilitators presented key concepts and then guided participants through discussions, activities, or demonstrations that reinforced understanding and built community—elements that are difficult to replicate virtually.

During this session, we will share both promotional strategies and examples of the interactive materials and approaches used to elevate participant engagement. We will conclude with an interactive discussion where attendees can ask questions, exchange ideas, and reflect on opportunities to strengthen outreach and design dynamic in-person experiences for their own events. Participants will leave with practical, adaptable strategies for expanding reach and enhancing engagement in agricultural and community-based programs.

Details

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